Manchester United could be prepared for a transfer battle with Liverpool, as links for a “top-class” defender continue to grow.
Manchester United simply haven’t been good enough under Rúben Amorim, with fans growing increasingly concerned in recent weeks. It seems improvements need to be made across the entire pitch after the poor start to this season.
While new additions have been made in the frontline this summer, United haven’t made a senior central defensive signing since Erik ten Hag left the club. Ayden Heaven joined from Arsenal, but he wasn’t expected to fight for a first-team spot immediately.
Leny Yoro and Matthijs de Ligt were among the defenders who signed before Amorim, but signing a new centre-back who suits the back three could seriously help United improve. Lisandro Martínez’s imminent return could also help the defensive situation at Old Trafford.
Senne Lammens’ arrival from Royal Antwerp appears to have already boosted the defence, but another central defender could be the key to turning United’s season around.
Jason Wilcox may look for further defensive reinforcement in the January transfer window, especially if Amorim is still struggling to register results.
United hold interest in Upamecano
United were first linked to Dayot Upamecano when he played for RB Leipzig, and interest appears to have cooled since he made the switch to Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga. However, Amorim’s defensive struggles appear to have reignited United’s interest in the Frenchman.
Bayern Insider have reported that, despite his “top-class” performances under Vincent Kompany, Upamecano is yet to agree a new contract with the German club. His current contract expires at the end of the season, so agreeing on a new deal soon is crucial for Upamecano’s future.
The centre-back is reportedly holding out for a higher signing-on fee, due to the £14.8 million Alphonso Davies received when he renewed his contract, as per Bild. Due to this issue, Liverpool and United have been put on high alert and are monitoring the current situation.
Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid are also interested, but not to the same extent as the two Premier League sides. Liverpool are looking for a potential Ibrahim Konate replacement, while United appear to be preparing for life without Harry Maguire.
United could win the Upamecano race if they make an offer for the Frenchman in January. The other clubs would prefer an end-of-season deal, without a transfer fee, so United could offer a low fee and similar wages to win the race.
Upamecano deal causes Yoro issue
Upamecano would likely join United and play on the right side of the back three if Amorim remains in charge, which is currently Yoro’s position on the right side. The young United centre-back competes with de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui for the right side of the back three.
If United managed to win the Upamecano race, Yoro could be forced to the bench, and Amorim could be mistreating another of football’s most talented young players, like Kobbie Mainoo.
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While Yoro can play on the left of the back three, Lisandro Martínez and Luke Shaw will be competing for that position, with Heaven waiting in the wings as well.
It would be better for United to sign another midfielder before turning their attentions to a new centre-back. Carlos Baleba appears to remain the favourite, but Bruno Fernandes needs a new partner in the engine room.
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